Air compressors

[MarkyG82]

My Ryobi inflator thingy is starting to struggle and the pressure indicator has always been a bit carp. Got me looking at a replacement but I have an emergency inflator gun thing in the boot so wondering if a more substantial device is required. First thought about the Ryobi 6lt compressor. Looks good. Nice and mobile should be able to deliver the air needed for the cars, bikes and other small jobs. A bit expensive for a small tank.

For less money I can get something from SGS or the like and have either better quality, bigger tank or both. Mains powered though so will need to make sure the hose is long enough.

 

Is 6lt too small? More is better obviously but is 50 too big? I have a double garage so in theory plenty space. But then I don't want to spend on something that is too big as it's wasted money and space.

 

In true forum fashion please feel free to recommend what you have!

[Paws4Thot]

I recommend you post a clearer use case if you want meaningful answers.

[SuperbTWM]

I've got a 3HP 50L Clarke Boxer, I think it does around 14CFM so its enough for impact guns and light/intermittent use a of rotary tools tools such as die grinders etc. My Dad has a very similar one by SIP that I got with my Halfords trade card probably over 10 years ago and that has been faultless, I think it may be a little quieter than the Clarke as well.

 

2HP version of the Clarke is available if your needs aren't as great. The 3HP does not like to run on extensions leads or on medium to long radial circuits of 2.5mm CSA either so bare that in mind or be prepared to change any MCB's to type C

 

I would personally stay away from the direct drive models as they are generally of cheaper contruction and sometimes a bit louder but again it depends on how much you are going to use it.

Edited 8 June, 2023 by SuperbTWM

[MarkyG82]

Primary use will be inflating tyres on cars and bikes. No immediate need for other tools. Maybe a Brad nailer and sprayer. Some of the kits I've seen come with a basic spray gun which I'm under no illusion will be much good but should get me started.

All other tools are battery or mains and no plans to replace or double up yet. Apart from my cheap electric Brad gun. I don't use it much mostly because it's a bit rubbish and the action is painfully slow. An air one would be great and allow me to just knock in a few brads when doing glue ups.

Power in the garage is on a dedicated ring so MCB depending I should be ok.

[Paws4Thot]

6 hours ago, MarkyG82 said:

Primary use will be inflating tyres on cars and bikes.

Halfords do a reliable and cheap 12v electric compressor that will certainly do car and light van tyres, and possibly cycle tyres up to about 70PSI.

[MarkyG82]

4 minutes ago, Paws4Thot said:

Halfords do a reliable and cheap 12v electric compressor that will certainly do car and light van tyres, and possibly cycle tyres up to about 70PSI.

 

Thanks for the suggestion. I'm after something that doesn't rely on plugging into the car. So battery (hence the Ryobi one) or mains.